Driving outside of the main Cozumel town for a trip around the island is a dream many have when they visit. Between everything that I had planned, this was something that I wanted to squeeze into my trip as well. Climbing into a vehicle with friends, we headed out ready to explore “the other side,” the Caribbean Seaside of the island!

While driving down the road, that wraps around the island, I was expecting about a fifteen or twenty-minute drive before seeing new and exciting things. However, suddenly the vehicle turned into Caletta off the side of the road. Unsure what was here exactly, we climbed out of the vehicle to come across the Cenote Aerolito de Paraiso. This little-known cenote is popular with cave divers, but also a nice place to walk around. Oh yeah, and there are crocodiles here too –so keep a keen eye where you are walking. After walking around for a bit, we climbed back into the car to continue.

A few minutes later we decided to check out El Cedral since we were driving past. Although the tourist shops were closed for the day, it was nice to be able to check out the area without all the hustle and bustle of shopkeepers. Being alone there with some friends gave a sense of peace, almost mystic, to the ruins that remain. Since nothing was open, we looked at the small ruins, and got back on the road.

Without any further delay, we pressed onward back on the curvy road. Homes, hotel resorts, trees, and crashing waves past by until we came to the south point. Though we couldn’t explore the lighthouse, as it was closed that day, we were able to catch a glimpse from a distance.

From here, it was a quick drive to The Coconut Cabana where they have an open bar 25 hours a day, (evidenced by their sign!) and directly behind beautiful beaches, soft sand, and crashing waves. There are hammocks to lay in under the shade to help you unwind, and enjoy the moment of a cool, freshly made drink by the ocean. Just try to stay awake here while enjoying the end of a day!

There was still more to explore, however, so it was time to hop up, and hit the road again. Driving by the rocks that had been carved by waves, the open ocean looked so amazing. As the waves continued to crash into the coastline, the roar of the water made a rhythmic sound as our journey came to a close. Driving back into town, and the sun had set, and darkness fell.